Synchronous flash memory with virtual segment architecture

ABSTRACT

An improved memory device and architecture has been detailed that enhances a Flash memory device that has an SDRAM compatible interface. The memory device employs a virtual paging scheme that allows the memory to have an efficient Flash internal structure, while logically re-mapping this architecture externally to a compatible virtual SDRAM architecture. This allows for access and operation of the improved memory device with a compatible SDRAM controller device, while Flash specific functions can be performed with an SDRAM command sequence. Internal to the memory, memory array banks are divided into four equal segments by row range and logically re-mapped by placing the segments virtually beside each other. This forms a virtual memory bank structure of equivalent rows and columns as a comparable SDRAM device. Additionally, the improved memory device may also have an extended interface that allows for direct access to the internal Flash memory architecture without logical abstraction.

RELATED APPLICATION

This is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/369,010, filed Feb. 19, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,798,710, titled“SYNCHRONOUS FLASH MEMORY WITH VIRTUAL SEGMENT ARCHITECTURE” which is acontinuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/928,621,filed Aug. 13, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,625,081 titled “SYNCHRONOUSFLASH MEMORY WITH VIRTUAL SEGMENT ARCHITECTURE” both of which arecommonly assigned and the entire contents of which are incorporatedherein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to non-volatile memory devicesand in particular the present invention relates to synchronousnon-volatile flash memory with virtual segment architecture.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Memory devices are typically provided as internal storage areas in thecomputer. The term memory identifies data storage that comes in the formof integrated circuit chips. There are several different types of memoryused in modern electronics, one common type is RAM (random-accessmemory). RAM is characteristically found in use as main memory in acomputer environment. RAM refers to read and write memory; that is, youcan both write data into RAM and read data from RAM. This is in contrastto ROM, which permits you only to read data. Most RAM is volatile, whichmeans that it requires a steady flow of electricity to maintain itscontents. As soon as the power is turned off, whatever data was in RAMis lost.

Computers almost always contain a small amount of read-only memory (ROM)that holds instructions for starting up the computer. Unlike RAM, ROMcannot be written to. An EEPROM (electrically erasable programmableread-only memory) is a special type non-volatile ROM that can be erasedby exposing it to an electrical charge. Like other types of ROM, EEPROMis traditionally not as fast as RAM. EEPROM comprise a large number ofmemory cells having electrically isolated gates (floating gates). Datais stored in the memory cells in the form of charge on the floatinggates. Charge is transported to or removed from the floating gates byprogramming and erase operations, respectively.

Yet another type of non-volatile memory is a Flash memory. A Flashmemory is a type of EEPROM that can be erased and reprogrammed in blocksinstead of one byte at a time. Many modern PCs have their BIOS stored ona flash memory chip so that it can easily be updated if necessary. Sucha BIOS is sometimes called a flash BIOS. Flash memory is also popular inmodems because it enables the modem manufacturer to support newprotocols as they become standardized.

A typical Flash memory comprises a memory array, which includes a largenumber of memory cells. Each of the memory cells includes a floatinggate field-effect transistor capable of holding a charge. The cells areusually grouped into blocks. Each of the cells within a block can beelectrically programmed in a random basis by charging the floating gate.The charge can be removed from the floating gate by a block eraseoperation. The data in a cell is determined by the presence or absenceof the charge in the floating gate.

Both RAM and ROM random access memory devices have memory cells that aretypically arranged in an array of rows and columns. During operation, arow (page) is accessed and then memory cells can be randomly accessed onthe page by providing column addresses. This access mode is referred toas page mode access. To read or write to multiple column locations on apage requires the external application of multiple column addresses. Toincrease access time, a burst mode access has been implemented. Theburst mode uses an internal column address counter circuit to generateadditional column addresses. The address counter begins at an externallyprovided address and advances in response to an external clock signal ora column address strobe signal.

A synchronous DRAM (SDRAM) is a type of DRAM that can run at much higherclock speeds than conventional DRAM memory. SDRAM synchronizes itselfwith a CPU's bus and is capable of running at 100 MHZ or 133 MHZ, aboutthree times faster than conventional FPM (Fast Page Mode) RAM, and abouttwice as fast EDO (Extended Data Output) DRAM and BEDO (Burst ExtendedData Output) DRAM. An extended form of SDRAM that can transfer a datavalue on the rising and falling edge of the clock signal is calleddouble data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM, or simply, DDR). SDRAM's can beaccessed quickly, but are volatile. Many computer systems are designedto operate using SDRAM, but would benefit from non-volatile memory. Asynchronous Flash memory has been designed that allows for anon-volatile memory device with an SDRAM interface. Although knowledgeof the function and internal structure of a synchronous Flash memory isnot essential to understanding the present invention, a detaileddiscussion is included in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/627,682filed Jul. 28, 2000 and titled, “Synchronous Flash Memory,” which iscommonly assigned and incorporated by reference.

In general, the goal of synchronous Flash is to mimic the architectureof SDRAM. It has an SDRAM interface which is compatible to SDRAM forread operation to the synchronous Flash memory. Programming, erasing,block protection and other flash specific function differ from SDRAM andare performed with a three cycle SDRAM command sequence. Unfortunately,the general internal architecture of conventional SDRAM memory is notthe most efficient architecture for non-volatile memories and for Flashmemory specifically.

For the reasons stated above, and for other reasons stated below whichwill become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading andunderstanding the present specification, there is a need in the art fora non-volatile memory device that can operate in a manner similar toSDRAM operation and maintain an internal architecture that is moreapplicable to non-volatile memory device access and power efficiencies.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above-mentioned problems with memory devices and other problems areaddressed by the present invention and will be understood by reading andstudying the following specification.

In one embodiment, a synchronous flash memory device comprises a firstmemory array with a first memory array dimensionality, a controlcircuit, and a synchronous memory interface, wherein the control circuitlogically adapts the first memory array dimensionality to a secondmemory array dimensionality.

In another embodiment, a synchronous non-volatile memory devicecomprises a memory array with a plurality of array banks, each arraybank having a first number of rows and a first number of columns, acontrol circuit, and a synchronous memory interface, wherein, for eacharray bank of the plurality of array banks, the control circuitlogically adapts the first number of rows and the first number ofcolumns to a second number of rows and a second number of columns.

In a further embodiment, a synchronous flash memory device comprises afirst memory array with a first memory array dimensionality, a controlcircuit, wherein the control circuit logically adapts the first memoryarray dimensionality to a second memory array dimensionality, and asynchronous memory interface. Wherein the synchronous memory interfacecomprises, an address interface, a data interface, and a controlinterface.

In yet another embodiment, a synchronous flash memory device comprises afirst memory array with a plurality of array banks, each having a firstrow dimension and a first column dimension, a control circuit, whereinthe control circuit logically adapts the first row dimension and thefirst column dimension of each of the plurality of banks to a second rowdimension and a second column dimension, and a synchronous memoryinterface. Wherein the synchronous memory interface comprises, anaddress interface, an extended address interface, a data interface, anda control interface.

A method of operating a synchronous flash memory device comprisesdividing a memory array with a first memory array dimensionality into aplurality of sections, and logically adapting the plurality of sectionsof the memory array to form an emulated virtual second memory arraydimensionality.

Another method of operating a synchronous flash memory device comprisesdividing a memory array with a first memory array dimensionality into aplurality of array banks, dividing each array bank of the plurality ofarray banks into a plurality of segments, logically adapting theplurality of array banks and plurality of segments of the first memoryarray dimensionality of the memory array to form an emulated virtualsecond memory array dimensionality, wherein accessing the emulatedvirtual second memory array dimensionality occurs through a synchronousmemory interface, and allowing access to the first memory arraydimensionality of the memory array through the synchronous memoryinterface and an extended interface.

In yet another method of logically mapping a synchronous non-volatilememory device comprises forming a first memory array with a firstplurality of banks, dividing each bank of the first plurality of banksinto a plurality of segments, and logically mapping the plurality ofsegments to appear as a second memory array with a second plurality ofsegments.

In a further embodiment, a synchronous flash memory device comprises amemory array with a first set of four array banks, such that each arraybank has a first number of rows and a first number of columns and eacharray bank is divided into four segments by row range, a latch circuit,a control circuit, and an SDRAM compatible synchronous memory interface.Wherein the control circuit logically maps the latch circuit and thefour segments in each of the four array banks to appear as an emulatedvirtual SDRAM memory device of an equal memory size with a secondvirtual set of four array banks, such that the first number of rows andthe first number of columns of each array bank of the memory array mapto a second number of rows, that is one fourth the first number of rows,and a second number of columns, that is four times the first number ofcolumns, of the second virtual set of four array banks of the emulatedvirtual SDRAM memory device.

In another method of making a synchronous flash memory device comprisesforming a non-volatile memory array with a plurality of array banks,each array bank having a first number of rows and a first number ofcolumns, forming a control circuit, and forming a synchronous interface,wherein the control circuit logically adapts the first number of rowsand the first number of columns of each array bank of the plurality ofarray banks to a second number of rows and a second number of columns.

In another embodiment, a system comprises a synchronous memorycontroller, and a synchronous flash memory device. Wherein thesynchronous flash memory device comprises, a memory array with a firstmemory array dimensionality, a control circuit, and a synchronous memoryinterface, wherein the control circuit logically adapts the first memoryarray dimensionality to a second memory array dimensionality.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a prior art SDRAM memory array with four banks ofmemory within the array.

FIG. 2 illustrates a virtual synchronous flash memory array of thepresent invention with four banks of memory within the array.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a virtual synchronous Flash memory array of thepresent invention subdivided into segments and the segments being mappedinto a virtual SDRAM memory array.

FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram example of a 4M×32 virtualsynchronous Flash memory, showing address, control and data interfaces.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of a memory address for a virtual synchronous Flash,showing bank address, additional virtual synchronous Flash addresses,row address, and column address.

FIG. 7 illustrates a bank of virtual synchronous Flash memory array ofthe present invention showing mapping of a segment to other segmentpositions within the bank.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a virtual synchronous Flash memory devicecoupled to an external processor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments,reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof,and in which is shown by way of illustration specific preferredembodiments in which the inventions may be practiced. These embodimentsare described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art topractice the invention, and it is to be understood that otherembodiments may be utilized and that logical, mechanical and electricalchanges may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of thepresent invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, notto be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present inventionis defined only by the claims.

A conventional synchronous Flash memory matches the internalarchitecture and simulates the operation of an SDRAM memory quiteclosely. In contrast, a virtual synchronous flash memory of the presentinvention changes the internal architecture, while maintaining acompatible conventional SDRAM interface. This allows it to better matchthe efficiencies of the underlying memory technology. The resultingmemory structure of a virtual synchronous Flash internal memory array isthen logically reassembled to simulate an SDRAM configuration for thepurposes of interfacing to a standard SDRAM compatible memorycontroller, processor, or other compatible external device. The virtualsynchronous Flash memory of the present invention allows for additionalmemory address pins to be added to the external address interface so asto enable external devices with the appropriate capability to access theinternal architecture of the virtual synchronous Flash memory directly.

FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of a prior art SDRAM memory arrayarchitecture. SDRAM memory arrays generally consist of a sequence ofmemory array banks that have rows and columns. The SDRAM memory arrays,upon being accessed with a bank, row, and column address, load aninternal data latch circuit with a defined number of bits. The SDRAMmemory array 100 of FIG. 1 has four array banks 102, 104, 106, and 108.Each of the four banks 102, 104, 106, and 108 in turn has X rows 110 andY columns 112. When a bank and row are selected by an input row address,the contents of a row of memory cells are placed on column bit linescoupled to sense amplifiers (not shown) and the bit values of the memorycells are detected. The selected memory array row, and therefore thecontents of the sense amplifiers, is generally called the active rowpage. The values detected by the sense amplifiers are latched in latchcircuit 114. An input column address to the SDRAM, which defines thecolumn page, selects from the latches of the latch circuit 114, and thusfrom the columns of the active row page, the Z number of bit values tobe latched by an internal data buffer (not shown). The Z data bits areheld in the internal data buffer for transfer from the SDRAM memorydevice through the data interface (not shown). An example of a commonSDRAM memory is a 4M×32 SDRAM, which has 4 banks, 4,096 rows, 256columns, and 32 bits. However, SDRAM memories come in multiple densitiesand bus widths, for example 8M×8, 4M×16, 4M×32, 2M×32, and 8M×16 to lista few.

An SDRAM memory read operation generally starts with an “ACTIVE” commandthat sets the bank and row address, by reading in an address placed onthe address interface to the SDRAM memory device. The “ACTIVE” commandthus activates the active row page and places it on the internal senseamplifiers to be read and latched by internal latch circuits. The columnaddress is read in from the address interface by a following “READ”command that sets the column page by selecting columns from the latchcircuits to place in an internal data buffer in the SDRAM memory device.The SDRAM command sequence is then finished on the next clock cycle witha data word transfer from the internal data buffer.

In an SDRAM compatible command sequence, before any READ or WRITEcommands can be issued to a bank within the synchronous flash memory, arow in that bank must be “opened.” This is accomplished via an ACTIVEcommand, which is used to open (or activate) a row in a particular arraybank for a subsequent access. The value on the BA0, BA1 inputs selectsthe bank, and the address provided on inputs A0–A11 selects the row.This row remains active for accesses until the next ACTIVE command,power-down or RESET.

A subsequent ACTIVE command to a different row in the same bank can beissued without having to close a previous active row, provided theminimum time interval between successive ACTIVE commands to the samebank is met. A subsequent ACTIVE command to another bank can also beissued while the first bank is being accessed, which results in areduction of total row access overhead.

After an ACTIVE command to activate a row in the memory, the READcommand is used to initiate a read access to an active row. The value onthe BA0, BA1 inputs selects the bank, and the address provided on inputsA0–A7 selects the starting column location. Read data appears on dataoutputs, the DQs (not shown) of the data interface (not shown) subjectto the logic level on the data mask (DQM) input that is sometimes usedto mask data DQ outputs and values not needed for the current memoryaccess operation.

During READ bursts, the valid data-out element from the starting columnaddress is available following a specified latency after the READcommand. In SDRAM compatible memory, each subsequent data-out element isvalid by the next positive clock edge. Upon completion of a burst,assuming no other commands have been initiated, all data outputs go asto a high impedance state. A full page burst continues until terminated.(At the end of the page, it wraps to column 0 and continue.) Data fromany READ burst may be truncated with a subsequent READ command, and datafrom a fixed-length READ burst may be immediately followed by data froma subsequent READ command. In either case, a continuous flow of data canbe maintained. The first data element from the new burst follows eitherthe last element of a completed burst, or the last desired data elementof a longer burst that is being truncated. A READ command can beinitiated on any clock cycle following a previous READ command.Full-speed, random read accesses within a page can be performed, or eachsubsequent READ may be performed to a different bank.

A fixed-length or full-page READ burst can be truncated with eitherACTIVE TERMINATE (may or may not be bank specific) or BURST TERMINATE(not bank specific) commands. Data from any READ burst may also betruncated with a subsequent WRITE command (WRITE commands must bepreceded by WRITE SETUP), and data from a fixed-length READ burst may beimmediately followed by data from a subsequent WRITE command (subject tobus turnaround limitations). The WRITE may be initiated on the clockedge immediately following the last (or last desired) data element fromthe READ burst, provided that I/O contention can be avoided.

As stated above, a virtual synchronous flash memory of the presentinvention changes the internal architecture, while maintaining acompatible conventional SDRAM interface. This allows it to better matchthe efficiencies of the underlying memory technology. FIG. 2 details asimplified diagram of a memory array of a virtual synchronous Flash ofthe present invention. The resulting memory structure of a virtualsynchronous Flash internal memory array is then logically reassembled tosimulate an SDRAM configuration for the purposes of interfacing to astandard SDRAM compatible memory controller, processor, or othercompatible external device. The virtual synchronous Flash memory of thepresent invention allows for additional memory address pins to be addedto the external address interface so as to enable external devices withthe appropriate capability to access the internal architecture of thevirtual synchronous Flash memory directly.

To accomplish this goal, the virtual synchronous Flash memory of thepresent invention internally reduces the effective column length of amemory array bank to one-fourth the column length of a correspondingSDRAM memory device. In addition, the number of rows of a memory arraybank is increased to four times the number of rows of a correspondingSDRAM memory device, maintaining the same overall memory density. It isnoted that other internal memory array configurations are possible andwould be apparent to those skilled in the art.

The virtual synchronous Flash memory array 200 of FIG. 2 is shown withfour array banks 202, 204, 206, and 208. Each of the four banks 202,204, 206, and 208 in the memory array in turn has 4(X) rows 210 and Y/4columns 212. When a bank and row are selected by an input row address,the contents of a row of memory cells is placed on column bit linescoupled to sense amplifiers (not shown) and the bit values of the memorycells are detected. The selected memory array row, and contents of thesense amplifiers, is called the active row page. The values detected bythe sense amplifiers are latched in by latch circuit 214. An inputcolumn address to the virtual synchronous Flash, which defines thecolumn page, selects from the latches of the latch circuit 214, and thusfrom the columns of the active row page, the Z number of bit values tobe latched by an internal data buffer (not shown). The Z data bits areheld in the internal data buffer for transfer from the virtualsynchronous Flash memory device through the data interface (not shown).From the above example, a 4M×32 SDRAM, which has 4 banks, 4,096 rows,256 columns, and 32 bits, would correspond to a 4M×32 virtualsynchronous Flash that internally has 4 banks, 16,384 rows, 64 columns,and 32 bits.

A process for logically reassembling the internal rows and columns ofthe virtual synchronous Flash of FIG. 2 to map to a comparableconventional SDRAM configuration is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. In FIG. 3,each of the four banks 308, 310, 312, and 314 of the internal memoryarray 316 of the virtual synchronous Flash of FIG. 2, which has 4(X)rows and Y/4 columns, is shown in FIG. 3. As detailed in FIG. 2, each ofthe virtual synchronous Flash internal memory array banks is divided byrow range into four segments 300, 302, 304, and 306. The number of rowsin each separate segment of FIG. 3 is equal to the overall X number ofrows in the SDRAM that the virtual synchronous Flash is compatible with.The segments 300, 302, 304, and 306 of each separate bank of the virtualsynchronous Flash are then logically mapped by arranging them in avirtual manner side by side into a corresponding virtual memory bank 400that is X rows long and Y columns wide, as shown in FIG. 4, matching acorresponding compatible SDRAM device. It is noted that other methods oflogically mapping a virtual synchronous Flash memory to match an SDRAMare possible and would be apparent to those skilled in the art with thebenefit of the present disclosure.

In the example previously given of a 4M×32 memory device, a 4M×32virtual synchronous Flash using the technique of FIGS. 3 and 4internally has 4 banks, 16,384 rows, 64 columns, and 32 bits. Each bankis logically divided into 4 segments of 4,096 rows and 64 columns each.The segments of each bank are logically mapped to form a virtual bank of4,096 rows and 256 columns. This procedure can be used on each bank toallow the 4M×32 virtual synchronous Flash to simulate a 4M×32synchronous SDRAM compatible memory device, which has 4 banks, 4,096rows, 256 columns, and 32 bits.

FIG. 5 is a simplified external diagram of a 4M×32 virtual synchronousFlash memory device 500 of an embodiment of the present invention,showing external connections, major interfaces, and extended virtualsynchronous Flash address lines. The virtual synchronous Flash memorydevice 500 of FIG. 5 includes bank address lines BA0–BA1 502, addresslines A0–A15 504, data interface 506, and control line interface 508.The bank address lines BA0–BA1 502 select the desired memory array bankfor a subsequent access. The data interface 506 transfers data to andfrom the virtual synchronous Flash memory device 500. The control lineinterface 508 contains the signal lines necessary to control the virtualsynchronous Flash memory device 500 in its operation, such as, but notlimited to, CS, DQS, clock, CAS, RAS, and WE. Depending on the SDRAMcommand being issued the values placed on the address lines A0–A15 504select the row or column of the memory array for an access. The addresslines A0–A15 are additionally split into two separate subsections,A0–A11 510 and A12–A15 512. The addresses in subsection A0–A11 510 allowstandard SDRAM compatible row and column memory address accesses to thevirtual synchronous Flash memory device 500. The additional addresslines in subsection A12–A15 512 are not necessary for SDRAM compatiblememory access, but if used by an extended capability SDRAM controldevice, address lines A12–A15 512 allow access to extended virtualsynchronous Flash capabilities and internal architecture. The virtualsynchronous Flash uses address lines A12–A13 for access to the extendedinternal Flash memory array row addresses. Address lines A14–A15 areused to set the extended internal Flash memory array segment address.

A virtual synchronous Flash of the present invention is compatible withconventional SDRAM interfaces and commands, such as detailed above. Inaddition, virtual synchronous Flash supports extended operations toallow Flash specific operations and to allow direct access to theextended rows and columns of the internal memory array architecture.Direct access to the extended rows and columns without logicalre-mapping of the rows and columns to a compatible SDRAM configurationis enabled by the additional address interface lines optionally fittedto the virtual synchronous Flash memory device, such as A12–A15 512 ofFIG. 5.

An example of a virtual synchronous Flash address space 600 is shown inFIG. 6. The virtual synchronous Flash address space of FIG. 6 matchesthe address space of the SDRAM it is compatible with and contains a rowaddress 606, a column address 608, a word address 610, and bank address612. In addition, the virtual synchronous Flash address space 600contains extended addresses for segment addressing 602 and rowaddressing 604 that allow for the direct access of the virtualsynchronous Flash without logical mapping by compatible hostcontrollers.

In the example 4M×32 virtual synchronous Flash of FIG. 5, address linesA12–A13 are used for extended row accesses into four times as manyphysical rows (16,384 rows) that a virtual synchronous Flash has ascompared to a compatible conventional 4M×32 SDRAM (4,096 rows). Addresslines A14–A15 are used for selecting which segment section of four(i.e., 300, 302, 304, and 306 of FIG. 3) of the virtual synchronousFlash's currently active memory array bank (i.e., 308 of FIG. 3) areaccessed in the operation.

A virtual synchronous Flash memory device's capability to set itssegment address allows for full segment association within the bank asshown in FIG. 7. In FIG. 7 is shown a bank of virtual synchronous Flashmemory 700 with four segments 702, 704, 706, and 708 that has beenlogically re-mapped to an SDRAM configuration. A row of the segment zero710 is shown being logically repositioned by an access that includes anextended virtual synchronous Flash segment address to appear as if itwas placed in one of the other three segments of the current memory bank(segment one 712, segment two 714, or segment three 716). The ability offull segment association allows any row selected in a bank to beaddressed to any of the four segments in that bank. This has the effectof logically shifting the address space by that number of segments for asubsequent memory access.

In operation, a virtual synchronous Flash memory reduces the active pageof the internal memory array bank by one-fourth. This reduces the numberof sense amplifiers activating by one-fourth, saving power andcomplexity. In the example 4M×32 virtual synchronous Flash, the memorydevice only activates 2K sense amplifiers versus 8K sense amplifiers foran SDRAM or synchronous Flash memory device. In addition, becausesixteen segments are available for the virtual synchronous Flash memorydevice versus four segments for an SDRAM, when each of the four bankshas their respective four segments activated, there is a higher hit ratefor READs without activating new rows. The increased granularity of avirtual synchronous Flash memory device decreases power usage, and inaddition, decreases memory access latency. Therefore effectivelyincreasing bandwidth to the virtual synchronous Flash over that of aconventional synchronous Flash component.

FIG. 8 shows an illustration of a virtual synchronous Flash memorysystem, wherein a 4M×32 virtual synchronous Flash memory device 800 ofan embodiment of the present invention is coupled to an externalprocessor 802. It is noted that the virtual synchronous Flash memorysystem of FIG. 8 is only shown as an example, and other systems andembodiments of the present invention can include multiple types of otherintegrated circuits (i.e., a memory controller, a field programmablegate array (FPGA), a volatile memory device, an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), etc.). Systems containing memory devices arewell known in the prior art and the following description is intendedonly to be an overview of their operation and provide an example oftheir operation with an embodiment of the present invention.

In the system of FIG. 8, address values for the virtual synchronousFlash memory 800 are received from the processor 802 on the externaladdress bus connections 804 and bank address lines 806. The receivedaddress values are stored internal to the memory device and utilized toselect the memory cells in the internal memory array (not shown). In aconventional SDRAM compatible operation, the processor 802, with anACTIVE command, inputs a row and bank address on address lines A0–A11808 and bank address lines BA0 and BA1 806 activating an internalvirtual row page (not shown) in the virtual synchronous Flash memorydevice 800. The row and bank address is followed by a READ command witha column address placed on address lines A0–A8 (a subset of addresslines A0–A11 808) by the processor 802. Internal to the virtualsynchronous Flash memory device 800, data values from the bank segments(not shown) are captured in latch circuits, logically re-mapped to forman SDRAM compatible data format, and readied for transfer from thevirtual synchronous Flash memory device 800. Data transfer from thevirtual synchronous Flash memory device 800 begins on the followingclock cycle received and transmitted on the bi-directional data wordinterface 810 to the processor 802. Control of the virtual synchronousFlash memory device 800 for operations is actuated by the internalcontrol circuitry (not shown). The control circuitry operates inresponse external control signals received from the processor 802 oncontrol signal external interface connections 820 and to internalevents.

Extended access to the virtual synchronous Flash memory device 800 isaccomplished utilizing the extended virtual synchronous Flash addresslines, A12–A15 814. The processor 802, with an ACTIVE command, inputs arow on address lines A0–A11 808, extended row and segment address linesA12–A15 814, and bank address lines BA0 and BA1 806. The ACTIVE commanddirectly activates a bank and internal row page and/or segment of theinternal memory array (not shown) in the virtual synchronous Flashmemory device 800 for further operations. The row, extended row, andbank address is followed by a READ command with a column address placedon address lines A0–A8 (a subset of address lines A0–A15 804) by theprocessor 802. Internal to the virtual synchronous Flash memory device800, data values from the bank segments (not shown) are readied fortransfer from the virtual synchronous Flash memory device 800 by beingcopied into internal latch circuits (not shown). Data transfer from orto the virtual synchronous Flash memory device 800 begins on thefollowing clock cycle received and transmitted on the bi-directionaldata word interface 810 to the processor 802. Control of the virtualsynchronous Flash memory device 800 for operations is actuated by theinternal control circuitry (not shown). The control circuitry operatesin response external control signals received from the processor 802 oncontrol signal external interface connections 820 and to internalevents.

CONCLUSION

An improved memory device and architecture has been detailed thatenhances a Flash memory device that has an SDRAM compatible READinterface. The memory device employs a virtual paging scheme that allowsfor the architecture of the memory to implement an efficient Flashmemory structure internally. Externally, the memory logically maps theinternal Flash architecture to an SDRAM compatible interface and virtualarchitecture, allowing for memory access and operation with a compatibleSDRAM controller device. Programming, erasing, block protection, andother Flash specific functions differ from SDRAM and are performed withan SDRAM command sequence.

In one embodiment, a memory device has four times as many rows in amemory array bank as a comparable SDRAM device, but only one fourth asmany columns. This reduces the number of sense amplifiers activating,therefore saving power and complexity in the memory device. Internal tothe memory, memory array banks are divided into four equal segments byrow range and logically re-mapped by placing the segments virtuallybeside each other. This logically re-mapped memory bank forming avirtual memory bank structure of equivalent rows and columns as thecomparable SDRAM device.

In another embodiment, a memory device with an extended memory interfacewith additional address lines was detailed, allowing for direct accessto the internal Flash memory architecture without the abstraction oflogical re-mapping the internal memory array. Additionally, the extendedinterface allows for full bank association and mapping of a segment rowof an activated virtual row page to any segment of the bank for asubsequent memory access.

More segments are available for the memory device versus a comparableSDRAM. Therefore, a memory has a higher hit rate for READs withoutnecessitating activation of further new rows. This increases the memoryarray granularity and has the effect of decreasing power and latency.The improved latency effectively increases the available bandwidth ofthe memory device.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and describedherein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the artthat any arrangement, which is calculated to achieve the same purpose,may be substituted for the specific embodiment shown. This applicationis intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the presentinvention. Therefore, it is manifestly intended that this invention belimited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.

1. A synchronous non-volatile memory device, comprising: a first memoryarray with a first memory array dimensionality; a synchronous memoryinterface means; and a means for logically mapping the first memoryarray dimensionality to a second memory array dimensionality.
 2. Thesynchronous non-volatile memory device of claim 1, wherein the firstmemory array further comprises a first plurality of array banks.
 3. Thesynchronous non-volatile memory device of claim 2, wherein the firstplurality of array banks each have a first row dimension and a firstcolumn dimension.
 4. The synchronous non-volatile memory device of claim3, wherein the means for logically mapping the first memory arraydimensionality to a second memory array dimensionality further comprisesa means for logically adapting the first row dimension and the firstcolumn dimension of each array bank of the first plurality of arraybanks to a second row dimension and a second column dimension.
 5. Thesynchronous non-volatile memory device of claim 4, wherein the secondrow dimension and the second column dimension are the same as a SDRAMmemory device or a DDR memory device.
 6. The synchronous non-volatilememory device of claim 2, wherein each array bank of the first pluralityof array banks further comprise a plurality of first segments, andwherein the means for logically mapping the first memory arraydimensionality to a second memory array dimensionality further comprisesa means for logically adapting the plurality of first segments to aplurality of second segments.
 7. The synchronous non-volatile memorydevice of claim 6, wherein the plurality of first segments of each arraybank of the first plurality of array banks comprise four segments. 8.The synchronous non-volatile memory device of claim 1, wherein thesynchronous memory interface means further comprises one of a SDRAMinterface means or a DDR interface means.
 9. A non-volatile memorydevice, comprising: a first memory array with a first memory arraydimensionality; a memory interface; and a control circuit, wherein thecontrol circuit is adapted to logically map the first memory arraydimensionality to a second memory array dimensionality.
 10. Thenon-volatile memory device of claim 9, wherein the non-volatile memorydevice is a flash memory device.
 11. The non-volatile memory device ofclaim 9, wherein the first memory array further comprises a firstplurality of array banks.
 12. The non-volatile memory device of claim11, wherein the first plurality of array banks each have a first rowdimension and a first column dimension.
 13. The non-volatile memorydevice of claim 12, wherein the control circuit is adapted to logicallyadapt the first row dimension and the first column dimension of eacharray bank of the first plurality of array banks to a second rowdimension and a second column dimension.
 14. The non-volatile memorydevice of claim 11, wherein each array bank of the first plurality ofarray banks further comprise a plurality of first segments, and whereinthe control circuit is adapted to logically re-map the plurality offirst segments to a plurality of second segments.
 15. The non-volatilememory device of claim 14, wherein the plurality of first segments ofeach array bank of the first plurality of array banks comprise foursegments.
 16. A method of operating a memory device, comprising:dividing a memory array with a first memory array dimensionality into aplurality of sections; and logically adapting the plurality of sectionsof the memory array to form an emulated virtual second memory arraydimensionality.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein dividing the memoryarray into a plurality of sections further comprises dividing the memoryarray into a plurality of array banks.
 18. The method of claim 17,wherein dividing the memory array into the plurality of array banksfurther comprises dividing the memory array into a plurality of arraybanks such that the array banks have a first row dimension and a firstcolumn dimension.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein logically adaptingthe plurality of sections of the memory array to form the emulatedvirtual second memory array dimensionality further comprise logicallyadapting the first row dimension and the first column dimension of eacharray bank to a second row dimension and a second column dimension. 20.A system comprising: a synchronous memory controller; and a non-volatilememory device, wherein the non-volatile memory device comprises, amemory array with a first memory array dimensionality, a controlcircuit, and a memory interface, wherein the control circuit logicallyadapts the first memory array dimensionality to a second memory arraydimensionality.
 21. The system of claim 20, wherein the memorycontroller further comprises one of a processor, an ASIC, and an FPGA.22. The system of claim 20, wherein the non-volatile memory device is aflash memory device.
 23. The system of claim 20, wherein the memoryarray further comprises a first plurality of array banks.
 24. The systemof claim 23, wherein the first plurality of array banks each have afirst row dimension and a first column dimension.
 25. The system ofclaim 24, wherein the control circuit is adapted to logically adapt thefirst row dimension and the first column dimension of each array bank ofthe first plurality of array banks to a second row dimension and asecond column dimension.
 26. The system of claim 23, wherein each arraybank of the first plurality of array banks further comprise a pluralityof first segments, and wherein the control circuit is adapted tologically re-map the plurality of first segments to a plurality ofsecond segments.
 27. A method of operating a non-volatile memory array,comprising: dividing a non-volatile memory array with a first memoryarray dimensionality into a plurality of sections; and logicallyadapting the plurality of sections of the non-volatile memory array toform an emulated virtual second memory array dimensionality.
 28. Themethod of claim 27, wherein dividing the non-volatile memory array intoa plurality of sections further comprises dividing the non-volatilememory array into a plurality of array banks.
 29. The method of claim28, wherein dividing the non-volatile memory array into the plurality ofarray banks further comprises dividing the non-volatile memory arrayinto a plurality of array banks such that the array banks have a firstrow dimension and a first column dimension.
 30. The method of claim 29,wherein logically adapting the plurality of sections of the non-volatilememory array to form the emulated virtual second memory arraydimensionality further comprise logically adapting the first rowdimension and the first column dimension of each array bank to a secondrow dimension and a second column dimension.